Mortlock converted, and a Welsh ruck offence allowed the centre to put Australia ahead for the first time with a penalty to make it 22-20.

Hook had an immediate chance to restore the advantage, but missed with a penalty from in front of the posts.

The game looked to be drifting from Wales, before Gerrard, having safely fielded a long kick into his 22, inexplicably let the ball slip from his grasp for a Wales scrum.

Charvis charged from the base, delivering quick ball for Hook to slot over a drop-goal.

Wales tried to close out the game, but a Gareth Cooper chip was well gathered by Huxley who hammered Wales back into their half.

A relentless attack either side of the final hooter left the Wallabies with a huge overlap and - as Hook just failed to grab a desperate interception - the ball was floated to Hoiles, who made no mistake in the corner.